Thursday, June 1, 2017

President Duterte warns CPP to face consequences should they back Maute

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 1): President Duterte warns CPP to face consequences should they back Maute

President Rodrigo Duterte warned members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) they will face consequences should they join or support the Maute terror group.

The President issued the warning during the 119th anniversary of the Philippine Navy here. This was the President’s reaction following the pronouncement of the CPP to intensify their offensive operations in Mindanao to show their opposition to Martial Law.

Duterte warned to order the arrest of the released political prisoners if the rebels decide to help Maute. According to him, “I already tried to talk to them and even released their detained members who are sick and those who are needed in the peace negotiation.”

“If there is a breakdown of the peace and order here because of the participation of the Communist in the war against the ISIS. If you want to help them, go ahead,” he said, but he added, “I am warning the leaders whom I have released and who are now talking with my representatives of the government do not attempt to come home, I will arrest all of you throw you to the Islamic (ISIS).”

If ISIS will prevail in the Philippines, Duterte said the communist will not even have a part in the country.

Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenza said they will treat the New People’s Army (NPA) as common lawless element.

“We will treat them like they are a lawless element,” he said on Wednesday.

Recently, the government peace panel refused to continue with the 5th round of peace talks in The Netherlands after the CPP announced to intensify their attacks in Mindanao. There were other reasons cited by the GRP panel why it is not proceeding with the peace negotiations.